The Islands of Samoa
Samoa lies neat the equator so has a pleasantly tropical climate with a year round average temperature of 28 degrees Celcius. The warmest months are December to April, the southeast trades making May to November cooler and drier. The surrounding waters remain warm all year round, thus there is little or no necessity to bring any type of wetsuit. The beaches and reefs all around Samoa are home to brilliant tropical fish and colourful coral. The beaches also provide a picture perfect view of a tropical paradise with fine white sand on coconut tree lined beaches all along the coast.
Samoa is a country of natural, unspoiled beauty with so much to offer its visitors. You can 'do your own thing' or there are several tour companies who will help you experience Samoan customs and show you the sights. Picture postcard, white sandy beaches, rugged mountains, virgin rainforest and plantations, sparkling waterfalls, lava fields and blowholes; there's something for everyone and a wide range of activities to enjoy.
The Island of Upolu
Upolu is home to Apia the business centre, most of the residents and the major hotels and resorts. Traditional open beach fales, operated by families or villages, dot the coast and give the visitor a chance to enjoy their own piece of paradise.
Some points of interest on Upolu include the Robert Louis Stevenson museum, Vailima, the Botanical Gardens and Mt Vaea reserve where he is buried; Falefa Falls and the Piula Freshwater Cave Pool an ideal swimming, snorkelling and picnic spot is open 6 days.
The road over the Le Mafa Pass takes you to the Aleipata district on the southeast coast and the white sandy beaches and coves of Lalomanu, Vavau, Fagatele and Tafatafa; and numerous waterfalls including the Togitogiga cascade and freshwater pool. For a change of pace visit Manona Island, see the Visitors Bureau for information.
Discover famous Lefaga, or 'Return to Paradise' beach and Salamumu on the island's southwest coast via the Cross Island Road. Just 6km from Apia, slide down a waterfall into a deep freshwater pool at the popular Papase'ea Sliding
Rocks.
For water sport enthusiasts Palolo Deep Marine Reserve, just minutes from Apia is a deep, blue pool with coral and colourful fish; ideal for snorkelling, diving and swimming. In the evening relax and be entertained by the colour, excitement and movement of the Samoan people at a traditional fiafia night.
Savai'i
Savai'i is the third largest island in Polynesia, behind New Zealand and Tahiti. Largely unpopulated Savai'i is scattered with ancient archeological sites many covered by jungle and dramatic lava landscapes. Since the coast is more exposed with fewer reefs than Upolu, there are some good surfing spots. There's world class diving at Lalomalava and Savai'i has numerous sandy beaches with fales for picnicing or overnighting and freshwater pools and springs. Savai'i is dotted with conservation areas and boasts two rainforest reserves that have earned Samoa a place on the ecotourist's map. Tafua is Samoa's most accessible rainforest and is home to a colony of flying foxes and the rare Samoan tooth-billed pigeon believed to be the closest living relative of the dodo.
On the north western peninsula is the Falealupo Rainforest Preserve with a spectacular canopy walk - an eco experience for everyone. A 24m swing bridge spans the forest floor 9m below and culminates at the top of a banyan tree where if unique experiences are your thing you can stay the night.
The Taga Blowholes are said to be the most powerful in the world and most spectacular of the natural phenomena in Samoa.
Savai'i is a fascinating island, with many points of interest and the local people live life at an easy and gentle pace. It's easy to get there with Polynesian Blue and various tours are available or stay and discover this special place for yourself.
The matai system stems from ancient Polynesian culture. A village comprises a group of extended families, aiga. Each family is led by a matai who represents the family on the fono, or village council. There are over 362 villages in Samoa and 18,000 matais. Matais can be male or female and are elected by family members, or inherit this office. The village council comprised of all matais in the village is headed by the highest chief or ali'i. Each village also has an orator chief - tulafale who conducts ceremonial and oratory duties and is seen carrying a fue - sennit mop, when on offical business.
Fa'a Samoa
Samoa is a land where unspoiled customs, cultures and courtesies still exist. Fa'a Samoa - the Samoan way is steeped in tradition and operates within a set of traditional Samoan protocols that vary between villages. Visitors are not expected to know the intricacies of Samoan life, but any attempt to understand and appreciate in fa'a Samoa is appreciated.
Sunday is a special day of rest and prayer in Samoa and some beaches and scenic spots are closed. The majority of citizens are committed Christians and numerous religions are represented here. Renowned for their churches and beautiful singing, experiencing a Sunday service is a highlight for many visitors and you will be most welcome. However dress appropriately and it is customary to make a small donation.
Village Protocols
Samoans are very warm and generous with hospitality and smiles. If you are travelling around the islands you're sure to be welcomed by the friendly villagers so an introduction to their ways will make your visit even more enjoyable. If you have any doubts about protocols ask your host or a village member. Always ask permission before taking photos in a village.
Wear bathing suits for swimming and sunbathing, but cover up in the streets of Apia and the villages. Skimpy clothing isn't recommended in Samoa and for church a light coloured dress or lavalava is appropriate. Sa (or curfew for evening prayers) usually takes place between 6pm and 7pm, lasts 10 to 20 minutes and is often marked by a bell or the blowing of a conch shell. Avoid walking or driving through villages during Sa. If you are invited into a Samoan house or fale, leave shoes outside and sit cross-legged on the floor, tuck your legs under yourself or cover them with a mat and don't point your feet at others. Never stand inside a fale when elders are seated.
Ten Samoan words
1. Hello - Malo
2. Good bye - Tofa
3. Thank You - Faafetai
4. Please - Faamolemole
5. Bad - leaga
6. Beautiful - Manaia
7. How are you? - Oa mai Oe?
8. Good thank you - Manuia faafetai
9. I am hungry - Fia ai a'u
10. Surf - fa'ase'e
Beaches
It's hard to believe that its' taken this long for the rest of the world to discover the natural beauty of Samoa and its' beaches. Blessed with white sand, peaceful lagoons, outer reef waves, the palm tree lined beaches of Samoa are amongst some of the best in the world. Paradise beach on the south shore was where the movie "South Pacific" was filmed and Aleipata beach was voted in the top 5 in the Pacific. So go for it and find your peace of paradise. You never know what you might just find Spot X as well. Remember that most beaches in Samoa are owned by the village so be sure to ask them if it's ok to use them. They may charge you a small fee & in most cases supply a Fale for the day.
Apia
Apia, population 38,800 (2001), is the capital of Samoa. The city is located on the northern coast of Upolu Island. It is the nation's major port and only city. Fish, and copra are the country's major exports, and cotton goods, motor vehicles, meats, and sugar are the major imports.
Location
Apia (13°50.S 171°50.W) is situated on a natural harbour at the mouth of the Vaisigano river. It is on a narrow coastal plain with Mt. Vaea (Elev. 472 m) directly to its south. Two main ridges run south on either side of the Vaisigano river with roads on each. The more western of these is Cross Island Road which is one of the few roads crossing to the south coast of Upolu.
City Features
Mulinu'u, the old ceremonial capital, lies at the city's western end and is the location of the Parliament House (Fale Fono) as well as the historic observatory which is now the meteorology office.
An area of reclaimed land jutting into the harbour is the site of the multistorey Government Offices and the Central Bank of Samoa. In the centre of the city is a clock tower erected as a war memorial. Apia has a number of multistorey buildings of recent origin but there are still some of the early, wooden, colonial buildings scattered around the town, most notably the courthouse with the museum on the upper floor. After years of neglect, this building was restored in 2004.
Also on reclaimed land is the main bus station near the fish market and the old market which now sells handicrafts. The new market (maketi fou) is inland a bit at Fugalei where it is more protected from the effects of cyclones.
Writer Robert Louis Stevenson spent the last 4 years of his life here and is buried on Mt. Vaea overlooking both the city and the home he built, "Vailima", which is now a museum in his honour.
Transport
Apia harbour is by far the largest and busiest harbour in Samoa. International shipping with containers, LPG gas and fuels all dock here. Ferries to Tokelau and American Samoa depart from here. Apia is served by a good road network which is generally kept reasonably well maintained. Most of the main roads are sealed with the few unsealed roads having lower use. Vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are 25 mph near the centre of town and 35 mph in the rest of the country with a 15 mph limit in special circumstances. The country has no trains or trams but is served with an extensive bus service. It is common for people to walk around the town or even for some distances outside it. There are few bicycles and motorcycles. There are increasing numbers of privately owned cars. Taxis are a common form of transport. Apia has a small airstrip (Fagali'i) which is used for internal flights and some international flights to Pago Pago in American Samoa. The main international airport (Faleolo) is a 40 minute drive west of the city.
Housing
This is a mixture of old colonial houses and more modern western style houses interspersed with some traditional Samoan houses (fale).
Samoan Facts, Hints & Tips:
Business Hours
Government departments, businesses and most shops open Monday to Friday 8am - 4:30pm, with lunch from 12 noon to 1pm. Some shops and offices close through lunch. Shops open on Saturdays 8am - 12 noon and only small convenience stores open on Sunday.
Currency / Banking
Samoa's local currency is the Samoan Tala (SAT), which is made up of 100 sene.
The most recognised foreign currencies are New Zealand, Australia and American dollars. Please note that it is local practice to quote prices in US$. A Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 10% applies and is usually included in all marked prices.
There are money changing facilities at the airport, most hotels and the three commercial banks, ANZ (Samoa), Westpac Bank (Samoa), National Bank of Samoa and Western Union have main branches in Apia and some have offices in Salelologa on Savai'i. Banking hours are Monday - Wednesday 9am - 3pm, Thursday and Friday to 4pm. On Saturday the National Bank of Samoa at the Apia market opens 9am - 12 noon.
Post Office / Telecom Services
The main office is on Beach Road, Apia. Telephone and Telex operates Monday - Saturday 8am - 10pm. Facsimile service operates Monday - Friday 8am-4:30pm. Stamps and philatelic operates Monday - Friday 9am - 4:30pm.
Language
Samoan is the national language however most Samoans speak English, which is the official language of business.
Time Zone
Samoa boasts the easternmost point from the dateline so it is the last place in the world to see the sun set each day. Samoan time is GMT minus 11 hours.
Medical
Samoa is free from most tropical diseases including Malaria. Medical services are available at the National Hospital, Apia, at a reasonable cost, and also from the privately operated Medcen Hospital. Most hotels and restaurants filter their water, however in villages and private homes it is advisable to buy bottled water.
Electricity
A 240 volt system operates, accepting three point plugs. Hotels can assist in converting 110 volts. If using a computer be aware that power can fluctuate.
Diplomatic Offices
Samoa has High Commissions for Australia and New Zealand; Embassies for USA and China and consular representatives for Britain, Chile, France, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, South Korea, Spain and Sweden.
Immigration / Entry Requirements
No entry permit is required for visitors staying up to 30 days, however all visitors must have a return or onward ticket and provide a local address. Visitors may apply to extend their stay by applying to the Immigration Office in Apia.
Departure Tax
Approx SAT45.00 is charged for departing adults and children 12 years and over. Children under 12 years are free.
Customs / Duty Free
Adult passengers may bring into Samoa duty free; one litre of liquor, one carton or 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
Transport / Travel
There are numerous ways of getting around Upolu and Savai'i so it's easy for visitors to see the sights and meet the local people.
Rental car companies are located in Apia and Salelologa on Savai'i. You must get your licence endorsed at a police station before collecting a rental car. Driving is an enjoyable way to explore Samoa at your own pace.
Driving on the right side of the road; the speed limit is 25mph in town, 35mph out of town and 15mph past schools and courthouses. Drive slowly and quietly through villages on Sunday.
Buses provide an extensive service on Upolu and Savai'i for local people and a memorable experience for visitors, if you aren't in a hurry. An approximate schedule is available from the Visitors Bureau.
Airport Bus Services transfer passengers between Faleolo International Airport and Apia's major hotels and cost about SAT 10.00 one way. For bookings or information phone 23014 or enquire at your hotel.
Taxis are always available in Apia and at the international airport. The government regulates rates, but check the cost of the journey with the driver before departing. Taxis charge SAT 2.00 minimum in the Apia area, longer trips are at a higher rate. A 35 minute airport to Apia fare is SAT 35.00-38.00
Flights leave from Fagali'i International Airport near Apia, linking Upolu with airports on Savai'i. Flights take 20 minutes and are operated by Polynesian Airlines.
Ferries leave from Mulifanua Wharf, beyond the international airport, for the 60 minute trip to Salelologa, Savai'i. Rental cars may be taken on the ferry.
Samoan History
The history of Samoa began when immigrants from the Lau islands in eastern Fiji arrived in the Samoan islands approximately 3500 years ago and from there settled the rest of Polynesia. There is evidence to suggest they travelled as far as South America. Contact with Europeans began in the early 1700s but did not intensify until the arrival of English missionaries and traders in the 1830s.
Halfway through the 19th century, the United Kingdom, Germany and the United States all claimed parts of the kingdom of Samoa, and established trade posts.
King Malietoa Laupepa died in 1898 and was succeeded by Malietoa Tooa Mataafa. The US and British consuls supported Malietoa Tanu, Laupepa's son. US and British warships, including USS Philadelphia shelled Apia on March 15, 1899.
In the Samoa Tripartite Convention, a joint commission of three members, Bartlett Tripp for the United States, C. N. E. Eliot, C.B. for Great Britain, and Freiherr Speck von Sternberg for Germany, agreed to divide the islands. Germany received the western part, (later known as Western Samoa), containing Upolu and Savaii (the current Samoa) and other adjoining islands. These islands became known as German Samoa. The US accepted Tutuila and Manu'a, which comprise a territory of the US known as American Samoa. In exchange for Britain ceding claims in Samoa, Germany transferred their protectorates in the North Solomon Islands. The monarchy was disestablished.
From 1908, with the establishment of the Mau ("opinion") movement, Western Samoans began to assert their claim to independence.
Shortly after the outbreak of World War I, in August 1914, New Zealand sent an expeditionary force to seize and occupy German Samoa. Although Germany refused to officially surrender the islands, no resistance was offered and the occupation took place without any fighting.
New Zealand continued the occupation of Western Samoa throughout World War I. In 1919, under the Treaty of Versailles, Germany dropped its claims to the islands.
New Zealand administered Western Samoa first as a League of Nations Mandate and then as a United Nations trusteeship until the country received its independence on January 1, 1962 as Western Samoa. Samoa was the first Polynesian nation to reestablish independence in the 20th century.
In July 1997 the constitution was amended to change the country's name from "Western Samoa" to "Samoa." Samoa had been known simply as Samoa in the United Nations since joining the organization in 1976. The neighboring U.S. territory of American Samoa protested the move, feeling that the change diminished its own Samoan identity. American Samoans still use the terms "Western Samoa" and "Western Samoans."
In 2002, New Zealand's prime minister Helen Clark formally apologised for two incidents during the period of New Zealand's administration: a failure to quarantine an influenza-carrying ship in 1919, leading to an epidemic which devastated the Samoan population, and the shooting of leaders of the nonviolent Mau movement during a ceremonial procession in 1926.
Samoa's rugby union team has achieved some notable successes, particularly in the sevens version of the game.
